A region once devastated by human activity and characterized by loss is in the midst of a revival of hope. On November 11, 2016 Businza, an adult female member of the Rushegura mountain gorilla family gave birth to a new baby. The newborn is a strong sign that this population is indeed experiencing a baby boom. The story of the mountain gorilla is one of survival and hope. In the ancient rain forests and mist-covered hillsides of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda, lives roughly half the world’s mountain gorilla population.

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Businza, of the Rushegura mountain gorilla family with her newborn baby. © Uganda Tourism Board

Against all odds, the mountain gorilla prevailed

With high elevations ranging from 8,000 to 13,000 feet, the mountain gorillas are known for their dense, thick fur to help them survive temperatures close to freezing. Yet, since the mid 1900s the gorillas have needed a lot more than thick fur to help them survive the onslaught of human threats. From habitat loss and deforestation to poaching, their worldwide population dropped to a dangerous low of just 600 in the 1980s.

Against all odds, the mountain gorillas’ bleak future has been looking much brighter. With the designation of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park as a World Heritage Site, the mountain gorillas can live in a safe and secure environment. Today, the population has steadily climbed to almost 900. Dr. Andrew Seguya commented on the sustained conservation efforts paying off. “Over the last 10 years, Uganda has been leading in the conservation of the mountain gorilla. We believe that the pristine and safe habitat is the crucial link in the survival of the gorillas as well as their health and wellbeing.”

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Mahogany Springs Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The biologically diverse region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park provides shelter to 120 other mammals in addition to the mountain gorilla. It is a prime habitat for other primate species such as baboons and chimpanzees. The baby boom of mountain gorillas is a true testament to the importance of sustained conservation efforts and support from the country to embrace their environment and wildlife as national treasures.

This post is by our newest contributor Maia Wikler, a Colorado College graduate with a passion for anthropology, human rights, travel and conservation. When she isn’t writing or reading she loves to be active outside and planning the next adventure.